Police have been accused of 'sucking the fun from everything' after warning youngsters they face arrest for throwing snowballs at cars, homes or people.

Crook Neighbourhood Police Team in Durham issued the warning yesterday, bringing a mixed response with some people accusing them of spoiling the fun.

The force say youngsters could be arrested for throwing snowballs at cars, homes or people who do not want to be involved in games.

The message posted yesterday said: "Crook Beat Team are aware that it has been snowing and that people are going to have fun in it, however if anyone is caught throwing snowballs at vehicles or onto the road, they could be arrested.

"Likewise, if anyone throws snowballs at person's homes or at people who do not want to be involved in the snow games, they could be arrested and it will be classed as anti-social behaviour."

Facebook user John Young commented: "What a joke."

But Julie Nicholson replied: "It's not a joke when the little darlings r putting stones in the snowballs b4 throwin them!!!!!!"

Paul Emmerton accused officers of "sucking the fun from everything".

Liam Graham said it was extremely dangerous but "kids will be kids".

A Durham Police spokeswoman said the force did not want to spoil fun or ban snowballs, but was issuing advice.

"Our general advice is, it might seem like innocent fun but it could have serious consequences," she said.No arrests have been made, she added.